Call for 12 to 15-year-olds to get second Covid vaccine dose sooner

Families are being urged to get young people aged 12-15 their second dose of the Covid vaccine as early as possible in the New Year.

Drop-in sessions will be available for this age group from January 3, according to the Scottish Government, while those who have already been given a date for their second jag can call a helpline to bring their appointment forward and get protection from the virus earlier.

Following JCVI advice, this age group can get their second vaccination from 12 weeks after their first dose. NHS Inform and local health board websites will provide further details of where drop-in sessions are available in each area.

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “Additional vaccinator capacity across Scotland means we are now in a position to offer second doses to the 12-15 age group earlier than previously planned. Eligible young people can get their second doses from next week, and before they return to school in many cases.

"I would urge them to take up the offer as early as they can, to receive greater protection from the virus.

“The festive season saw a major effort to get adults boosted by the bells. But we need to keep up momentum and make sure everyone is protected from the virus, particularly with the emergence of the new Omicron variant.”

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